GUIDELINES FOR THE PREPARATION OF RESEARCH PROJECT, DISSERTATION AND THESIS 2017
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GUIDELINES
FOR THE PREPARATION OF
RESEARCH PROJECT,
DISSERTATION AND THESIS
2017
i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Preface ..……………………………………………………………………..………… 1
CHAPTER 1: FORMAT OF WRITING ……..……….……………...……………. 2
1.1 Conventional Format ...……….…………………………………………...……. 2
1.2 Article Style Format …………………………………….………………....……. 3
1.3 Format of Published Papers ...…………………………………..………...….…. 5
CHAPTER 2: SEQUENCE OF CONTENTS ……………………….…….……….. 9
2.1 Preliminary …………………………………………………………..…………. 9
2.1.1 Title Page ...………………………………………………………...…… 9
2.1.2 Original Literary Work Declaration Form ……………………………... 11
2.1.3 Abstract …………………………………………………………………. 12
2.1.4 Acknowledgements …………..………………………………………… 14
2.1.5 Table of Contents ………………………………………………………. 14
2.1.6 List of Figures …………………………………………………………... 14
2.1.7 List of Tables …………………………………………………………… 14
2.1.8 List of Symbols and Abbreviations …………………………………….. 14
2.1.9 List of Appendices ……………………………………………………… 15
2.2 Main Body ……………………………………………………………………. 15
2.2.1 Introduction …………………………………………………………….. 15
2.2.2 Literature Review ………………………………………………………. 15
2.2.3 Methodology ………………………………………………..…………. 16
2.2.4 Results ………………………………………………………………….. 16
2.2.5 Discussion ………………………………………………………………. 16
2.2.6 Conclusion ……………………………………………………………… 16
2.2.7 References …………………………………………………………….... 16
2.3 Supplementary …………………………………………………………….......... 18
2.3.1 List of Publications and Papers Presented ……………………………… 18
2.3.2 Appendices .…………………………………………………………….. 18
2.3.3 Co-authors Consent …………………………………………………...... 18
ii
CHAPTER 3: FORMAT SPECIFICATIONS ……………………………………... 19
3.1 Paper Quality, Printing and Duplicating………………………………………… 19
3.2 Typing and Printing Quality…………………………………………………….. 19
3.3 Line Spacing…………………………………………………………………….. 19
3.4 Margins …………………………………………………………………….…… 19
3.5 Page Numbering ………………………………………………………………... 20
3.6 Numbering of Chapters and Sub-chapters ……………………………………… 20
3.7 Footnotes ……………………………………………………………………….. 21
3.8 Tables …………………………………………………………………………… 22
3.9 Figures ………………………………………………………………………….. 22
3.10 Binding …………………………………………………………………………. 23
3.11 Word Length ……………………………………………………………………. 27
3.12 Other Information ………………………………………………………………. 28
CHAPTER 4: SUBMISSION ……………………………………………………….. 29
4.1 Prior to Submission …………………………………………………………….. 29
4.2 Required Documents for Submission …………………………………………... 29
CHAPTER 5: PLAGIARISM ………………………………………………………. 31
iii
PREFACE
In the process of completing a postgraduate programme in the University of Malaya
and being awarded the degree, a candidate may be required to submit a research project or
dissertation or thesis, depending on the requirements of the specific programme.
The terms “research project”, “dissertation” and “thesis” are defined as follows:
Research project refers to the documentation of the research component prepared and
submitted by the candidate for the award of the Master’s programme by coursework.
Dissertation refers to the documentation of the original research prepared and submitted by
the candidate for the award of the degree for the Master’s programme by research, and by
mixed mode as well as Doctoral programme by coursework and by clinical coursework.
Thesis refers to the documentation of the original research prepared and submitted by the
candidate for the award of the degree for the Doctoral programme by research, and mixed
mode.
In view of this requirement, the Institute of Graduate Studies (IGS), University of
Malaya has taken the initiative to provide general guidelines for the submission of research
projects, dissertations and theses. These guidelines will assist candidates to meet the minimal
format requirements set by the University to complete the final form of a research project,
dissertation or thesis. However, the format may differ in each individual faculty, academy,
institute or centre with its own additional requirements.
1
CHAPTER 1: FORMAT OF WRITING
A research project, dissertation or thesis can be written in one of the following formats:
Conventional format
Article style format
Format of published papers (This option is only available for Doctor of Philosophy
candidates)
These formats serve as a generic guideline for the postgraduate candidates in writing a research
project, dissertation or thesis. Minor variation of the format as recommended by the faculty is
allowed. Candidates are advised to discuss with their supervisors to determine which format is
best suited for the nature of their research work.
1.1 Conventional Format
The conventional format follows the traditional monograph structure (Table 1.1). This is the
most common form of research project/dissertation/thesis used by most candidates.
Table 1.1: The general structure that follows the conventional format
Preliminary
Title Page
Original Literary Work Declaration
Abstract
Abstrak
Acknowledgements
Table of Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Symbols and Abbreviations
List of Appendices
Main Body
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Literature Review
Chapter 3: Methodology
Chapter 4: Results
Chapter 5: Discussion
Chapter 6: Conclusion
References (A consolidated list of references for all chapters)
Supplementary
List of Publications and Papers Presented
Appendix
2
1.2 Article Style Format
Apart from the conventional style of writing, a research project/dissertation/thesis can also be
presented in the chapters that are in the format of journal article (Table 1.2). The number of
chapters to be included is at the discretion of the author, depending on the suitability of the
chapters in answering the research questions.
The article style format should not be confused with the format for thesis by published papers.
Similar to the conventional format, a research project/dissertation/thesis in the article style
format should be written extensively to elucidate the different aspects of the research work in
great details.
The main body of a research project/dissertation/thesis in the article style format should contain
the following chapters:
(a) General Introduction
The General Introduction gives an overview of the research by outlining the objectives,
novelty as well as the research questions addressed. This chapter should also explain the
correlation among the articles/chapters.
(b) Literature Review
The Literature Review provides extensive background information on past studies and
current knowledge pertaining to the research topic.
(c) Article 1, Article 2, Article 3 or more
Each article should address a specific research objective or a related topic of the study.
Each article forms a separate chapter and must be written in a cohesive manner with a
logical and coordinated progression from one article/chapter to the other. The
article/chapter should consist of its own sections on Introduction, brief Literature Review,
Methodology, Results, Discussion and Conclusion.
(d) Conclusion and Recommendation
The Conclusion chapter summarizes the findings in all articles and suggests the future
direction for research.
The format specifications of the research project/dissertation/thesis must conform to the
general research project/dissertation/thesis requirements as outlined in Chapter 2.
3Table 1.2: The general structure that follows the article style format
Preliminary
Title Page
Original Literary Work Declaration
Abstract
Abstrak
Acknowledgements
Table of Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Symbols and Abbreviations
List of Appendices
Main Body
Chapter 1: General Introduction
Chapter 2: Literature Review
Chapter 3: Article 1*
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Literature Review
3.3 Methodology
3.4 Results
3.5 Discussion
3.6 Conclusion
Chapter 4: Article 2*
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Literature Review
4.3 Methodology
4.4 Results
4.5 Discussion
4.6 Conclusion
Chapter 5: Article 3*
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Literature Review
5.3 Methodology
5.4 Results
5.5 Discussion
5.6 Conclusion
Chapter 6: Conclusion
References (A consolidated list of references for all chapters)
4Note:
*Article is written with a specific title which normally refers to the research
done
Supplementary
List of Publications and Papers Presented
Appendices
Co-authors Consent
1.3 Format of Published Papers
UM also permits the presentation of thesis for the programme of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
in the format of published and/or submitted papers, where such papers have been published or
accepted by high impact journals (e.g. journals indexed by Web of Science) during the period
of candidature (Table 1.3).
Papers submitted as a PhD thesis must be based on a particular theme or focus and form a
cohesive research write up. The quality of a thesis by published papers should be in accordance
with PhD-level research. The following aspects should be taken into consideration before
opting for this format of writing:
(a) Type of Publications
The thesis may comprise published papers and/or manuscripts accepted for publication by
high impact journals (e.g. journals indexed by Web of Science). Publications which have
been submitted for other degree conferment purposes are not accepted.
(b) Number of Publications
The minimum number of papers and/or manuscript is at least three (3). However, in some
disciplines a larger number of papers is required to meet the expectations of scope and
quality in accordance with PhD-level research. The papers should be published or accepted
for publication during the period of candidature.
For candidates under the programme of PhD by Prior Publication, the minimum number
of published works is at least five (5) and these works must be those published within a
period not exceeding 10 years prior to the date of submission of thesis.
(c) Authorship
Where the papers have more than one author, the candidate must be the first author of at
least two (2) out of three (3) papers.
For candidates under the programme of PhD by Prior Publication, the candidate should
be the first author of five (5) of the published works submitted.
5(d) Co-authors Consent
Candidate must obtain the consent from other co-authors for all papers and/or manuscripts
and/or publications used as part of their PhD thesis. The consent can be in the form of a
verification from the journal publisher or letter or email communication with the co-
authors.
(e) Structure of Thesis
The thesis in the format of published papers shall consist the following:
(i) An abstract, which summarises the most important findings presented in each
published paper or accepted manuscript. It should indicate how the included works
are thematically linked or tied to a particular research framework and how, when
considered together, they contribute significantly to knowledge in the discipline.
(ii) The Introduction chapter should include the following:
description of research problem investigated;
objectives of the study;
list of publications and/or accepted manuscripts;
the account of research progress linking the publications.
The account of research progress must link together the various papers submitted
as part of the thesis so that the reader can understand the logic behind the
progression of the research programme.
(iii) The Literature Review chapter must contain, in accordance with discipline norms,
a critical review of relevant literature, identify the knowledge gaps and the
relationship of the literature to the programme of research.
(iv) The Methodology chapter (where applicable).
(v) The core chapter of the thesis consist of the published papers or accepted
manuscripts in their original publication format and should NOT be retyped or
reformatted. They must be presented coherently in the thesis according to the
requirement of the University of Malaya (Degree of Doctor of Philosophy)
Regulations, including any accompanying declarations. The following must be
indicated for any jointly written paper:
Acknowledgment of co-authors and verification of originality.
A clear statement of the contribution made by each author in any joint published
work. For example, a statement of contribution from a 3-author academic
research publication is as follows:
Tang, J.M.Y., Adli, D.S.H., & Belabut, D. (2011). Histological
development of selected neural structures of Dark-sided Chorus Frog,
6Microhyla heymonsi (Amphibia: Anura). Malaysian Journal of
Science, 29(1), 11-18.
Tang, J.M.Y. participated in all experiments, coordinated the data analysis
and contributed to the writing of the manuscript. Adli, D.S.H. supervised
the development of work and edited the manuscript. Belabut, D. gave
technical support and conceptual advice, and helped in data interpretation.
(vi) The Discussion chapter explains the cumulative effect of the papers, the
significance of the findings and the knowledge claim in the thesis.
(vii) The Conclusion summarizes the findings in all published works and suggests the
future direction for research.
(viii) The References chapter lists all works and sources that are cited in the Introduction,
Literature Review and Conclusion chapters.
In general, the examination process for theses in the format of published papers is similar to
that for conventional theses. However the aspects of thesis being evaluated by the examiners
may slightly differ.
Theses which have not achieved sufficient academic merit may be referred for further work
within a period of between 6 to 12 months and be submitted for re-examination. In such cases,
the candidate may choose to submit the thesis for re-examination in the same format or in the
conventional Doctoral thesis format.
Candidates under the programme of PhD by Prior Publication are required to refer to the
Guidelines for Prior Publication for further details.
7Table 1.3: The general structure that follows the format or published papers
Preliminary
Title Page
Original Literary Work Declaration
Abstract
Abstrak
Acknowledgements
Table of Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Symbols and Abbreviations
List of Appendices
Main Body
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Literature Review
Chapter 3: Methodology (where applicable)
Chapter 4: *Published Paper 1
*Published Paper 2
*Published Paper 3 and so on
*Note: Authors' contributions must be indicated for each published paper
Chapter 5: Discussion
Chapter 6: Conclusion
References (List of references for chapters of Introduction, Literature Review
and Conclusion)
Supplementary
List of Publications and Papers Presented
Appendices
Co-authors Consent
8CHAPTER 2: SEQUENCE OF CONTENTS
The structure of the research project, dissertation or thesis is based on a standard format which
contains the three main sections; Preliminary, Main Text and Supplementary.
2.1 Preliminary
This section consists in order of the following:
Title Page
Original Literary Work Declaration Form
Abstract
Acknowledgements
Table of Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
List of Symbols And Abbreviations
List of Appendices
2.1.1 Title Page
The title page is the first page after the front cover and should include:
(a) The final research title which has been approved by the faculty;
(b) Name of candidate according to the registration records;
(c) A statement according to the mode of programme (Table 2.1);
(d) The year of submission.
Table 2.1: Statement on Title Page according to mode of programme
Master’s Degree
Research project Dissertation Dissertation
(by Coursework) (by Mixed mode) (by Research)
RESEARCH PROJECT DISSERTATION DISSERTATION
SUBMITTED TO THE SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL SUBMITTED IN
(name of the Faculty) FULFILMENT OF THE FULFILMENT OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF MALAYA, REQUIREMENTS FOR THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT DEGREE OF (Name of DEGREE OF (Name of
OF THE REQUIREMENTS Programme) Programme)
FOR THE DEGREE OF (Name
of Programme)
Doctoral Degree
Dissertation Thesis Thesis
(by Coursework or (by Mixed mode) (by Research)
by Clinical Coursework)
DISSERTATION SUBMITTED THESIS SUBMITTED IN THESIS SUBMITTED IN
IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF FULFILMENT OF THE
OF THE REQUIREMENTS THE REQUIREMENTS FOR REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
FOR THE DEGREE OF (Name THE DEGREE OF (Name of DEGREE OF (Name of
of Programme) Programme) Programme)
9This page is the first page of Roman numeral page number but it is not numbered. The
text should be typed using font type Times New Roman, font size 14 with 1.15 pt. line
spacing.
(a) (b)
(c) (d)
Figure 2.1, continued
(a) Master’s research project by coursework, (b) Master’s dissertation by Mixed mode, (c)
Master’s dissertation by research, (d) Doctoral dissertation by coursework, (e) Doctoral thesis
by Mixed mode, and (f) Doctoral thesis by research.
10(e) (f)
Figure 2.1: Examples of title page.
2.1.2 Original Literary Work Declaration
This form must be completed by the candidate and signed by a witness (Supervisors or
Head of Department/Deputy Dean of Higher Degree). The original signed form must
be included in all copies of the research project/dissertation/thesis. The form can be
downloaded from the IGS website in two (2) languages (English language and Bahasa
Malaysia). If the research project/dissertation/thesis is written in English, hence the
English version of the form is used and vice versa.
(a) (b)
Figure 2.2: Original Literary Work Declaration
(a) English, (b) Bahasa Malaysia
112.1.3 Abstract
An abstract is a short summary of the research project/dissertation/thesis. An abstract
should briefly describe the objectives (problem statement), the significance of research,
research methodology, as well as the findings and conclusion of the research.
The Abstract page begins with the title of research project/dissertation/thesis (in
uppercase) that is approved by the faculty after the submission of 3 Months’ Notice.
Candidates are not allowed to change the title without the approval of the faculty.
An abstract must not exceed 500 words, typed in a single paragraph with double-
spacing, and written in Bahasa Malaysia and English language. A maximum of five (5)
keywords should also be listed below the abstract (Figure 2.3).
Where the language of the thesis is other than Bahasa Malaysia or English, an abstract
in that language must also be included. The sequence of abstracts is as follows:
For research project/dissertation/thesis written in Bahasa Malaysia, the abstract in
Bahasa Malaysia is followed by the English version.
For research project/dissertation/thesis written in English, the abstract in English is
followed by the Bahasa Malaysia version.
For research project/dissertation/thesis written in Arabic, the abstract in Arabic is
followed by its version in Bahasa Malaysia and English.
The Abstract page is assigned Roman numeral "iii" and the following pages should be
numbered consecutively.
12[TITLE OF RESEARCH PROJECT/DISSERTATION/THESIS]
ABSTRACT
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Nulla efficitur risus ac magna
malesuada venenatis. Etiam a faucibus metus, at consequat leo. Sed pulvinar suscipit
massa, sit amet pulvinar ligula accumsan sed. Nam sed leo mollis, feugiat felis in, porta
nunc. Maecenas at erat eu augue tristique vestibulum. Donec ac lobortis nunc. Aliquam
laoreet dolor a massa hendrerit, ac bibendum neque semper. Aliquam id nisi
magna.Aliquam ligula orci, congue id dapibus at, luctus in magna. Maecenas non nulla
ac tortor tristique laoreet. Donec porta neque semper imperdiet pulvinar. Phasellus
egestas viverra ornare. Fusce nisi ex, pharetra eu gravida vel, iaculis quis quam. Mauris
placerat sapien sapien, ac mollis eros imperdiet vel. Morbi nulla ipsum, commodo sed
ex eu, pharetra maximus massa. In et placerat elit. Aliquam porta sem sit amet justo
pellentesque consectetur. Quisque aliquet leo nunc, sed porttitor quam ullamcorper at.
Suspendisse nunc lorem, tempus a feugiat ac, facilisis eu nisi. Donec feugiat vulputate
turpis, at tincidunt ex posuere at. Sed semper ante vitae tincidunt malesuada. Praesent
commodo diam non tortor laoreet, ac volutpat dui scelerisque. Maecenas elementum
rhoncus placerat. Aliquam mollis vel diam ut imperdiet. Donec in venenatis arcu. Nam
pulvinar eros nunc, vel malesuada turpis vestibulum eget. Aliquam erat volutpat.
Vivamus ut euismod augue. Nam semper risus nec nibh posuere tincidunt. Pellentesque
id imperdiet enim, vitae viverra lectus.
Keywords: proin fringilla, turpis metus, vitae, tincidunt
iii
Figure 2.3: Example of abstract.
132.1.4 Acknowledgements
Most research projects, dissertations or theses include a message to convey appreciation
to those who have been involved and provided their assistance directly or indirectly in
the preparation of the study.
This is optional and should not exceed a single page, which is numbered in Roman
numeral accordingly.
2.1.5 Table of Contents
The Table of Contents lists the chapters, topics and sub-topics together with their page
numbers. Sub-topics and topics should be labelled according to the chapter, for
example:
CHAPTER 1: TITLE
1.1 Topic 1
1.1.1 Sub-topic 1
CHAPTER 2: TITLE
2.1 Topic 1
2.1.1 Sub-topic 1
This numbering system provides a clear picture of the relationship between chapters
and topics and shows how they are connected.
2.1.6 List of Figures
This list contains the titles of figures, together with their page numbers, which are found
throughout the text. For example, figures in Chapter 1 are numbered sequentially:
Figure 1.1, Figure 1.2 and so on.
2.1.7 List of Tables
This list contains the titles of tables, together with their page numbers, which are listed
in the text. The numbering system is according to chapter, for e.g.: tables in Chapter 1
are numbered sequentially: Table 1.1, Table 1.2 and so on.
2.1.8 List of Symbols and Abbreviations
The symbols, abbreviations, nomenclature and terminology that are used in the text
must be listed down accordingly.
For further information on spelling and abbreviations, candidates are advised to refer to
the latest edition of the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary published by Oxford
University Press.
142.1.9 List of Appendices
This list is optional and contains the titles of appendices placed in the supplementary
section
2.2 Main Body
Candidates and supervisors should ensure that the text follows the agreed conventions of the
individual faculty. The main text in the research project/dissertation/thesis must be organised
following the guidelines as mentioned below:
Text must be organised in titled chapters.
The titles must reflect the content of the chapter.
Every chapter must begin on a new page.
Chapters can be divided into sub-chapters with corresponding sub-titles.
Titles and sub-titles must be numbered.
There is no restriction on the total number of chapters in a research project/dissertation/thesis.
The number of chapters differs according to the field of study conducted by the candidate
whether it is science-based or social science-based. However the content of the chapters may
differ according to the candidate's research or conventions of individual faculty.
Generally, a research project/dissertation/thesis will have the following basic structure:
INTRODUCTION
LITERATURE REVIEW
METHODOLOGY
RESULTS
DISCUSSION
CONCLUSION
REFERENCES
Items in the structure are divided into separate chapters and the descriptions of these chapters
are as follows:
2.2.1 Introduction
This chapter contains the introduction to the issues in which the research is concerned
with, the aims and objectives of the study, and the scope or outline of the research
approach as well as the structure of the research project/dissertation/thesis.
2.2.2 Literature Review
A literature review is a description of the literature relevant to a particular field or topic
of study. It consists of a critically written and comprehensive account of the published
works on a topic by accredited scholars and researchers. A critical literature review is a
critical assessment of the relevant literature. It is directly related to the research,
providing information on theories, models, materials and techniques used in the
research. The literature review should be comprehensive and include recent
publications which are relevant to the research.
152.2.3 Methodology
This chapter describes and explains the materials as well as the research methodology
used in the study. The sub-topics for this chapter include the key research questions, the
research design, and the research procedures adopted. It may also, where appropriate,
indicate sampling methods, research instruments and statistical methods employed. The
purpose of this is to inform the reader on the methods used to collect the data and
generate the findings reported.
2.2.4 Results
This chapter explains the results which are commonly presented in the form of text,
figures and tables, complete with data analysis.
2.2.5 Discussion
This chapter contains the interpretation of the results. The findings of the research
should be compared and contrasted with those of previous studies presented in the
literature review. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the findings and the outcomes
of the research in relation to the results that have been obtained.
2.2.6 Conclusion
In this chapter, the findings are summarized and their implications discussed. This
section may include suggestions for future work.
2.2.7 References
All works or studies referred to in the research project/dissertation/thesis in the form of
quotations or citations must be included in the references.
The references should be written consistently in the American Psychological
Association (APA) format or in another format approved by the faculty. Each reference
should be written in single spacing format and a double space should be left between
references. The list of references must be arranged in alphabetical order and the entries
should not be numbered. The list must also have a hanging indentation of 0.5 inch. For
example:
Buchwalow, I. B., & Böcker, W. (2010). Immunohistochemistry: basics and methods.
Berlin: Springer Verlag.
Caamaño-Tubío, R. I., Pérez, J., Ferreiro, S., & Aldegunde, M. (2007). Peripheral
serotonin dynamics in the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).
Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part C: Toxicology &
Pharmacology, 145(2), 245-255.
16Cakir, Y., & Strauch, S. M. (2005). Tricaine (MS-222) is a safe anesthetic compound
compared to benzocaine and pentobaritol to induce anesthesia in leopard
frogs (Rana pipiens). Pharmacological Reports, 57, 467-474.
Cameron, A. A., Plenderleith, M. B. & Snow, P. J. (1990). Organization of the spinal
cord in four species of elasmobranch fishes: cytoarchitecture and distribution
of serotonin and selected neuropeptides. The Journal of Comparative
Neurology, 297, 201-218
Reference citations in text require the following information:
last name of the author,
the year of publication,
the page number for the reference (direct quotes only).
For summaries or paraphrases, the last name of the author and the year of publication
must be included for the in-text reference. For examples:
Kingston and Parker (2012) found the biggest challenges in classroom to be ….
The biggest challenges in classroom were …. (Kingston & Parker, 2012).
For direct quotations (which refers to when the exact words of another author are
copied), the last name of the author, the year of publication as well as the page number
for the reference must be included for the in-text reference. The quotation has to be
enclosed in quotation marks. For examples:
It was said that “What is taught and how it is to be taught entail teachers’ moral
judgements and commitments” (Frank & Quiroz, 1997, p. 208).
According to Frank and Quiroz (1997), “What is taught and how it is to be taught
entail teachers’ moral judgements and commitments” (p. 208).
17If the quoted citation contains more than 40 words, it should be placed within a
paragraph of its own with a 0.5 inch indentation. For example:
The general theory of relativity, on its own, cannot explain these features or
answer these questions because of its prediction that the universe started off with
infinite density at the big bang singularity. At the singularity, general relativity
and all other physical laws break down: one couldn’t predict what will come out
of the singularity. (Hawking, 1988, p. 309)
Please refer to the University of Malaya Library APA Formatting and Style Guide. The
guide can be downloaded at UM Library website (http://www.umlib.um.edu.my).
2.3 Supplementary
Specific items which were not included in the main body of the text, should be put in this
Supplementary section. Typically, this section includes the following:
2.3.1 List of Publications and Papers Presented
Published works as well as papers presented at conferences, seminars, symposiums etc.
pertaining to the research topic of the research project/dissertation/thesis are suggested
be included in this section. The first page of the article may also be appended as
reference.
2.3.2 Appendices
Appendices consist of research instruments, additional illustration of data sources, raw
data and quoted citations which are too long to be placed in the text. The appendix
section supports the written text of the research project/dissertation/thesis by including
materials that can provide additional information. These materials include research
data, tables, examples of questionnaires, maps, photos and other materials that are too
long to be included in the text or are not directly required to comprehend the text can
be included as appendices.
Tables and graphics that are more than two pages long are suggested to be included in
the Appendix section.
Appendices are labelled as APPENDIX A, APPENDIX B, etc. and they should
correspond to the List of Appendices of Preliminary section.
2.3.3 Co-authors Consent
Please refer to 1.3 (d).
18CHAPTER 3: FORMAT SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 Paper Quality, Printing and Duplicating
The research project/dissertation/thesis should be printed, single-sided, on high quality white
A4 paper (201 × 297 mm; 80 grams). Computer pin-feed printout paper is not permitted.
The research project/dissertation/thesis, in soft- and hardcover copies, must be typed and
duplicated by offset printing or good quality photocopying. All copies must be clean and neat
in order to ensure easy reading.
3.2 Typing and Printing Quality
Texts in research project/dissertation/thesis should be typed on one side of the paper only.
They must be typed using font type Times New Roman, font size 12 (except for tables and
figures) and justified, using Microsoft Word version 6.0 or later, or similar word-processing
software. Those written in Arabic should use font type Traditional Arabic in font size 16.
Words in a language that is different from the language of the research
project/dissertation/thesis must be typed in italics. For mathematical texts, the use of Equation
Editor or LaTeX is advisable. Script fonts are not permitted.
Chapter titles should be typed with capital letters and centred between the left and right
margins. Each chapter must begin on a new page. Chapters and subchapters should be also
titled. Titles should be typed in bold without underline.
A high quality laser or ink-jet printer should be used for the printing.
3.3 Line Spacing
The body of the text should be typed with double spacing. Single-spacing is only permitted in
tables, long quotations, footnotes, citation and in the references.
The first sentence of a new paragraph should not start at the bottom of a page if the space
available can only fit one line.
3.4 Margins
The text should have the following margins:
Top : 2.0 cm or 0.79 inch
Right : 2.0 cm or 0.79 inch
Left : 4.0 cm or 1.57 inch
Bottom : 2.0 cm or 0.79 inch
Additional guidelines regarding margin are as follows:
Do not type more than one sentence after the bottom margin. If it is necessary to do so, it
should only be for a footnote or the completion of the last sentence of the chapter, topic or
sub-topic or information in a figure.
19 All tables and figures must be placed within the specified margins.
The last paragraph of the page should contain at least two sentences. If it does not, the
paragraph should begin on the next page.
3.5 Page Numbering
All page numbers should be printed 1.0 cm from the bottom edge of the page and placed at the
right-hand side without any punctuation (Figure 3.1).
The page numbering system must conform to the following rules:
The page numbers should be placed at the right hand side without any punctuation.
Font type Times New Roman and font size 10 recommended for numbers.
Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, …) should be used in the Preliminary section. The first page of
the thesis, the title page, is an unnumbered page ‘i’. Numbering begins on the second page
with ‘ii’ for the Original Literary Work Declaration Form.
Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3, …) are used on the pages of the text (starting with the Introduction
page) and Supplementary section.
In line with text
2 cm
Approximately 1 cm
Figure 3.1: Placement of page number
3.6 Numbering of Chapters and Sub-chapters
Chapters and sub-chapters must be numbered using Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3 etc).
Chapters are numbered CHAPTER 1, CHAPTER 2, CHAPTER 3, and so on. Sub-
chapters are nested, but its numbering is not indented, up to a maximum of 4 levels as
in the example shown below:
CHAPTER 2: FIRST LEVEL (CHAPTER TITLE)
2.1 Level 2 (sub-title);
2.1.1 Level 3 (sub-sub-title);
2.1.1.1 Level 4 (sub-sub-sub-title)
20The use of letters in parenthesis in the main body for e.g., (a), (b), (c) is appropriate as
a means of differentiating sub-topics of the same topic. However, it is not required to
be listed in the Table of Content.
If a chapter title or chapter sub-title at any level exceeds a single line, the spacing
between the lines must be the same as that of the text (double-spacing). Subsequent
sub-chapters beyond the fourth nesting level must be numbered using alphabets; (a),
(b), (c), and so on.
3.7 Footnotes
There are differences in the use of footnotes in various disciplines. For example,
footnotes are commonly used in Social Sciences but rarely in Science and Technology.
However candidates are advised to limit the use of footnotes unless they are proved
necessary to the document. Footnotes are used to elaborate or provide additional
information regarding matters discussed in that page.
Footnotes are recorded using Arabic numeric and numbered consecutively. Raised
superscript numerals in the text refer to explanatory notes and documented sources
appearing either at the bottom of the page as footnotes or at the end of the thesis as
endnotes in a notes section. The advantage of using notes is that explanatory type of
information can be presented along with source citations on the same page or place.
Footnotes should use a smaller font than the text (font size 8).
When using footnote, a number formatted in superscript is inserted following the
punctuation mark in the text. Footnotes should be placed at the bottom of the page on
which they appear (Figure 3.2). Please refer to the faculty for the recommended
convention for writing of footnotes.
Scientists examined, over several years, the fossilized remains of the wooly-
wooly yak.1
______
1
While the method of examination for the wooly-wooly yak provides important insights to this research, this
document does not focus on this particular species.
Figure 3.2: Example of footnote
213.8 Tables
Tables are printed within the body of the text at the centre of the frame and labelled according
to the chapter in which they appear. Thus, for example, tables in Chapter 3 are numbered
sequentially: Table 3.1, Table 3.2 and so on.
The caption should be placed above the table itself (Table 3.1). If the table contains a citation,
the source of the reference should be included in the table caption.
Table 3.1: Example of table
Heading Heading
Text Text
If the table occupies more than one page, the continued table on the following page should
indicate that it is a continuation, for example: ‘Table 3.7, continued’. The header row should
also be repeated.
3.9 Figures
Figures, like tables are printed within the body of the text at the centre of the frame and labelled
according to the chapter in which they appear. Thus, for example, figures in Chapter 3 are
numbered sequentially: Figure 3.1, Figure 3.2.
Figures, unlike text or tables, contain graphs, illustrations or photographs and their labels are
placed at the bottom of the figure rather than at the top (using the same format used for tables)
(Figure 3.3).
40
Example
20
Test
0
Sample
Figure 3.3: Example of figure
If the figure occupies more than one page, the continued figure on the following page should
indicate that it is a continuation: for example: ‘Figure 3.7, continued’.
If the figure contains a citation, the source of the reference should be placed after the label.
223.10 Binding
Each copy of the research project/dissertation/thesis submitted shall be bound in one (1)
volume. The thesis cover must be of A4 size (210mm x 297mm).
For the purpose of examination, research project/dissertation/thesis submitted should be soft
cover bound in rexine with the following colour (Figure 3.4):
Research project: Navy blue
Dissertation: Dark red or maroon
Thesis: Dark red or maroon
For final submission prior to graduation, research project/dissertation/thesis submitted should
be hard cover bound in rexine with the following colour (Figure 3.5):
Research project: Navy blue
Dissertation: Dark red or maroon
Thesis: Dark red or maroon
Front Cover Colour of Dissertation/Thesis (Dark red or maroon)
Front Cover Colour of Research Project (Navy blue)
Figure 3.4: Sample of softbound copy for first submission for examination)
23(a)
(b)
Figure 3.5: Samples of hardbound copy for final submission
(a) Example of hardbound thesis or dissertation (in dark red or maroon);
(b) Example of hardbound research project (in navy blue)
24The title of research project/dissertation/thesis, name of author, name of the university
and year of submission must be printed on the front cover. The letters for the Front
Cover should be printed in gold letterings of font size 16, font type Arial Narrow,
bold and in uppercase letters (Figure 3.6 and 3.7).
Figure 3.6: Formatting of the front cover of research project/dissertation/thesis
25Figure 3.7: Example of the front cover of research project/dissertation/thesis
26The spine of the manuscripts should show the title of research project/dissertation/thesis, name
of author, year of submission and name of degree. The year of submission must be in
accordance with the year when the research project/dissertation/thesis is submitted (Figure 3.8
and 3.9). If the title of the research project/dissertation/thesis exceeds the space of the spine, a
smaller font size can be used (i.e. font size 16 to 14) or alternatively the title can be truncated
with ellipses (…) (Figure 3.10).
PRIVATIZATION IN ALGERIA: POLICY AND PhD
AMIR GHORBANI
PERFORMANCE 2017
Figure 3.8: Spine format
Figure 3.9: Example of spine format
THE EFFECT OF GEOGRAPHICAL REGION ON PhD
KWONG SIU YEE
THE TRANSITION TIME OF CMMI-BASED … 2017
Figure 3.10: Spine format for long title
3.11 Word Length
The maximum word length for a submission for examination is shown in Table 3.2.
Table 3.2: Maximum word length
Master’s Programme
Research project Dissertation Dissertation
(by Coursework) (by Mixed mode) (by Research)
30,000 words 40,000 words 60,000 words
Doctoral Programme
Dissertation Thesis Thesis
(by Coursework or (by Mixed mode) (by Research)
by Clinical Coursework)
60,000 words 80,000 words 100,000 words
The minimum word length is determined by the faculty based on the programme standards
according to their respective discipline (if any). The maximum length of words excludes
footnotes, references, appendices, tables, figures and prefaces.
27Candidates who are unable to meet the word length set by the University must seek approval
from the faculty before the submission of research project/dissertation/thesis for examination.
3.12 Other Information
A candidate may not resubmit previous research work which he or she has submitted to this or
any other University for the award of a degree. The candidate may, however, incorporate any
part of such work, provided that there is a clear indication in the research
project/dissertation/thesis of its sources.
The candidate may also include any other printed or published work by an individual or a
working group to validate his or her findings. Where the contribution is from a working group,
the candidate is required to provide a statement indicating which part of the work was carried
out by the candidate. The statement should be signed by the rest of the group indicating their
consent (this may be included in the Appendix).
Approved research projects/dissertations/theses or parts of their content are allowed for
publication if they are accompanied by a statement that the work was conducted towards the
fulfilment of a particular degree.
All research mode candidates are required to publish papers in Web of Science (WoS) or
category A or B refereed journals based on the work during the course of study, and due
reference must be made to the University in all such papers.
28CHAPTER 4: SUBMISSION
4.1 Prior to Submission
Postgraduate candidates are required to submit the 3 Months’ Notice via MyUM Student Portal
at least three (3) months before the actual date of submission. This is to allow timely
nomination of examiners and title approval of research project/dissertation/thesis. Details on 3
Months’ Notice submission is available on the IGS website (http://ips.um.edu.my > Students
> Current Students > Examination of Thesis/Dissertation).
Submission of research project/dissertation/thesis for examination has to be done within the
candidature period after title approval by the faculty.
Prior to binding and submission, it is recommended for candidates to get the format of their
final drafts checked by providing a printed copy to the Thesis Unit, IGS. Also, candidates are
strongly advised against copying the formatting done by other candidates as previously
submitted research project/dissertation/thesis may not conform to the current formatting
requirements. Failure to meet the formatting requirements may result in a thesis/dissertation
being rejected at the point of submission.
Once ready, Master’s candidates shall submit their research projects/dissertations to the
Postgraduate Officer of the respective faculty whereas Doctoral candidates submit their theses
to the Thesis Unit, IGS.
4.2 Required Documents for Submission
Documents required for submission for the purpose of examination are as follows:
at least five (5) printed softbound copies (or such numbers as may be determined by the
faculty) of the research project/dissertation/thesis;
one (1) electronic copy (PDF format); and
Submission of Research Project/Dissertation/Thesis for Examination/Re-examination
form.
Documents required for final submission prior to graduation after completing the corrections
(if any), are as follows:
at least two (2) printed hardbound copies (or such numbers as may be determined by the
faculty) of the final research project/dissertation/thesis;
one (1) electronic copy (PDF format);
Final Submission for Research Project/Dissertation/Thesis form;
Repository form; and
Correction Report form (if applicable).
All the required forms can be downloaded from the IGS website (http://ips.um.edu.my) under
Current Students.
29The submitted electronic copy of the research project/dissertation/thesis (in PDF format) in a
compact disc (CD) or USB flash drive must be labeled with the following details (Figure 4.1):
Name
Matric no.
Title of research project/dissertation/thesis
Faculty/Academy/Institute/Centre
Year of submission (current year)
Figure 4.1: Printed label format (inside the CD sleeve or case)
30CHAPTER 5: PLAGIARISM
Postgraduate candidate of the University of Malaya are expected to produce original academic
work. Plagiarism is defined as the use of original work, ideas or actual texts created by others,
without acknowledging the original source. Hence, failure to acknowledge the work of others
in their work means the candidate is guilty of plagiarism and may be subjected to disciplinary
action under the University of Malaya (Discipline of Students) Rules 1999.
Postgraduate candidates are strongly advised to read the “How to Avoid Plagiarism: A
Handbook for Postgraduate Students”, which outlines the rules and regulations pertaining to
acts of plagiarism.
The University also highly recommends the usage of Turnitin, an online web-based plagiarism
detection application to avoid plagiarism and ensure academic integrity. In most cases, the
similarity index percentage should not be more than 10% to 25%. Please refer to your
respective faculty regarding the acceptable similarity index percentage.
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